Become a certified postpartum doula.
Postpartum doulas are trained in all aspects of care and support for birthers and their families after a baby is born:
physical support
ensuring a new parent is getting the nutrition and sleep required to thrive, while helping them acquire the skills to confidently care for their baby
Emotional Support
providing the family with a safe place to process their birth and adjust to the profound changes of new parenthood
InformationAL Support
knowledge of current research, local resources and when and where to refer in the community
In a Postpartum Doula training, you will learn the skills to capably support new parents and help them learn how to care for and understand their babies.
Our comprehensive programs and supportive mentorship not only provide practical tools for success but guide students on a journey, exploring and identifying their own intentions from an educated perspective.
The 4-day in-person workshop is taught through discussion, small group activities, partner work, hands-on opportunities, homework, and role play
What you can expect from Postpartum Doula training with the Canadian Doula Academy:
✔ Class sizes are between 8 and 20 students for optimal engagement and interaction.
✔ Just as new parents need to be nurtured, students do as well, time to process what you’re learning and to share are possible.
✔ Opportunities to practice tactile skills using weighted baby dolls, gear, and materials.
✔ Continued support and guidance as you move forward as a postpartum doula is available through our on-going mentorship program.
Curriculum
Topics included in the Canadian Doula Academy curriculum are:
The Role of Postpartum Doula Support
The Doula and the Needs of Families
Planning for Postpartum
Postpartum Doula Basics
The Impact of Birth on Postpartum
Effective Communication and Connection
Postpartum Physical Changes and Recovery
Feeding the Newborn Basics
Integrating a Baby into the Family
Postpartum Mental Health incl. PPMADs
Sleep and the New Family
Introduction to Loss and Grief
Resources and Referrals
Building your Doula Practice
Next Steps: Certification
Study Options
Postpartum Doula Training
April 24 - 27 in Calgary
June 5 - 8 on Vancouver Island
Oct. 23 - 26 in Calgary
Nov. 27 - 30 in Edmonton
Birth Doula Training
Feb. 7 - 10, 2025 in Calgary
May 29 - June 1 in Calgary
Sept. 18 - 21 in Grande Prairie
Nov. 13 - 16 in Calgary
Our Instructors
Erin Moyen
Director + Educator
MARCY CASSELMAN
Mentor + Educator
The importance of the Postpartum Doula
“I deeply believe that consistent, non-judgmental support in the early postpartum days and weeks can make a huge difference in how a family copes with the transition to parenthood. I believe that a new mother needs and deserves to be nurtured, both physically and emotionally. She needs someone to ensure that she gets adequate food and rest. She needs someone who can listen to her story, hear her fears and rejoice in her triumphs. I believe that this is important work that has a positive impact on our community and society.”
~ AJ Hadfield
Frequently Asked Questions
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A Doula is a nonclinical perinatal support professional who assists families before, during and after childbirth. Doulas provide emotional and physical support and information to help achieve the healthiest and most satisfying experience.
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At the Canadian Doula Academy our programs were created for you! Our esteemed educators provide superior knowledge and foundational skills to aspiring doulas, healthcare professionals, educators and individuals passionate about reproductive health. We believe in-person education translates best for all perinatal support professionals working with clients and building practices.
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All students are invited to participate in the Doula Mentorship offered upon completion of their classroom requirements. Our Mentorship program provides new ways for doulas to continue gathering, engaging and growing along with trusted CDA mentors. Meet-ups often include celebrations of success, doula business discussions, processing challenging situations and resource sharing. Doula Mentorship provides a supportive professional network as new careers are established.
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At the Canadian Doula Academy we believe in-person education creates unparalleled connection, and translates best for all perinatal support professionals working with clients and building practices.
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Of course we do! At the Canadian Doula Academy we value previous experience, education and the deep knowledge that doulas improve care for childbearing families. If you are already a doula reach out to our certification team for additional information regarding cross-certification.
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A certificate of attendance documents your participation in a training program.
Certification with the Canadian Doula Academy provides a recognized credential demonstrating your knowledge and skills as a competent doula, as well as your dedication to childbearing families and continuous learning within the profession.
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Many insurance providers and/or Health Spending Accounts (HSA) will reimburse for the cost of a certified professional doula. We encourage every family seeking doula support to check with their insurance provider.
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After our in-person Doula training all students are encouraged to work towards certification with the Canadian Doula Academy. Our alumni usually liken these steps to a self-driven practicum. The complete certification process typically takes 12 – 24 months. You will have continued support and guidance through our mentorship program, if you need it. All certification requirements will be covered during the training program, and we are confident you’ll master the next steps!
